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PowerBook G4 Q&A - Updated February 26, 2007
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What are the differences between the "Gigabit" PowerBook G4 (550/667) models?
Please note that the "Gigabit" PowerBook G4 series was introduced on October 16, 2001 and discontinued April 29, 2002.
The differences between the PowerBook G4/550 (Gigabit - Ti) and PowerBook G4/667 (Gigabit - Ti) are relatively minor. Both systems share a slightly thicker version of the ultrasleek Titanium case and the 15.2" TFT widescreen display introduced with the original PowerBook G4 models.
However, the "Gigabit" models introduce "Gigabit" Ethernet capability -- as the unofficial name notes -- as well as faster processors with "on chip" level 2 cache, and a new motherboard design with support for faster memory and improved graphics. The "Gigabit" models shipped with a new lightweight power adapter as well.
The major differences are summarized below in this handy chart:
PowerBook G4 | ||
Processor: | 550 MHz | 667 MHz |
System Bus: | 100 MHz | 100 MHz |
Level 2 Cache: | 256k (on chip) | 256k (on chip) |
Memory Type: | PC133 SDRAM | PC133 SDRAM |
Std. RAM: | 128, 256 MB* | 256, 512 MB* |
Max. RAM: | 1.0 GB | 1.0 GB |
Display: | 15.2" Widescreen | 15.2" Widescreen |
Resolution: | 1152x768 | 1152x768 |
Video Card: | Mobility Radeon | Mobility Radeon |
Video RAM: | 16 MB | 16 MB |
Hard Drive: | 20 GB | 30 GB |
Optical Drive: | 6X DVD-ROM* | 6X DVD-ROM* |
AirPort (802.11b): | Optional | Standard |
Bluetooth: | N/A | N/A |
Expansion: | Type I/II PC Card | Type I/II PC Card |
Battery Life: | 5 Hours | 5 Hours |
Dimensions (Inches): | 1.1 x 13.4 x 9.5 | 1.1 x 13.4 x 9.5 |
Weight: | 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) | 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) |
Orig. Model No: | M8362LL/A* | M8363LL/A* |
Orig. Price: | US$2199 | US$2999 |
*On December 17, 2001, both systems were upgraded with twice the amount of RAM standard and a DVD/CD-RW "Combo" drive. The upgraded models likewise were assigned new model numbers, M8622LL/A and M8623LL/A, respectively.
Please refer to the Ultimate Mac Comparison feature to dynamically compare any PowerBook G4 model to any other G3 or later Mac.
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